Intramedullary Bone Fixation Shaft with Tensioning Cable
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current orthopedic implanted devices for joint fusion, stabilization, and fracture fixation often rely on invasive exterior tensioning systems that lack control and accuracy in tension measurement, complicating the processes involved.
Innovation Solution
An elongated shaft with a longitudinal inner bore, compression slots, and channels that allow for precise tensioning and fixation between bone elements, utilizing a tensioning cable that extends through channels and slots to apply controlled compression, and includes features like tensioning cable clearance slots to prevent interference with transverse bolts and dynamization slots for dynamic movement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Force
If invasive exterior tensioning devices are used, then bone compression can be achieved, but tension control accuracy and measurement precision deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary tensioning cable system that passes through the elongated shaft and connects bone elements, allowing precise tension control and measurement. The cable acts as a mediator between the compression force application point and the measurement system, enabling accurate monitoring of tension forces during the compression process.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces traditional invasive exterior tensioning devices with an intramedullary-based tensioning system. The elongated shaft with integrated channels and compression slots provides a mechanical framework for precise tension application, substituting the need for external invasive devices while improving control and measurement capabilities.
2Productivity
If traditional tensioning systems are used, then bone elements can be compressed, but procedural complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple functions into a single integrated elongated shaft structure. The shaft combines compression application, tensioning cable routing, bone fixation, and measurement capabilities in one unified device, reducing procedural complexity by eliminating the need for separate invasive exterior tensioning devices and simplifying the overall surgical procedure.
Solution Approach 2:
The elongated shaft serves multiple functions simultaneously: it provides structural support, enables tensioning cable passage, facilitates compression application, allows bone fixation through integration slots, and supports measurement capabilities. This multi-functionality reduces the number of separate components and procedures needed, improving overall efficiency.
3Manufacturing precision
If compression slots are positioned for optimal compression, then bone alignment improves, but tensioning cable routing becomes more difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the elongated shaft into distinct functional zones with separate compression slots and tensioning cable channels. The compression slots are positioned for optimal bone compression and alignment, while the tensioning cable channels are routed through the shaft structure to accommodate cable passage. This segmentation allows each feature to be optimized independently without interfering with the other.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent resolves the spatial conflict between compression slots and tensioning cable routing by utilizing three-dimensional space within the elongated shaft. Compression slots are positioned in the shaft wall for optimal compression, while tensioning cable channels are routed through the shaft's longitudinal and radial dimensions, allowing cable passage without interfering with compression slot positioning. This dimensional approach enables both precise bone alignment and easy cable routing.
Data Source
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AI summary
Systems, methods, and apparatuses for fusion, stabilization, or fixation of bones are provided.